PSC lobbyist showed 'poor judgment'

As state authorities investigate the Public Service Commission for improper contact with the companies it regulates, an inspector general's report released Wednesday all but cleared the agency's lobbyist for attending a Kentucky Derby party at the home of Florida Power & Light executive during a pending rate case.

The PSC inspector general concluded Wednesday that PSC lobbyist Ryder Rudd's appearance at the party of FPL vice president Ed Tancer "though not specifically prohibited by law or rule, constituted poor judgment and could create negative perceptions.'' Rudd supervises 28 staff members that were involved in two FPL issues before the commission.